WO2022106224A1

WO2022106224A1 - Adjustable launchers

Info

Publication number: WO2022106224A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/080801
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jean-Michel Laporte; Jean-Marc Fouques
Original assignee: Laporte Holding
Priority date: 2020-11-19
Filing date: 2021-11-05
Publication date: 2022-05-27
Also published as: EP4248165A1; US20240003663A1; FR3116331A1; AU2021381537A1; CN116568986A

Abstract

The invention relates to a target launching machine (4) for sports shooting, comprising a base (1), a launching unit (3) which is rotatably movable in a first direction (35) relative to the base, an arm launcher (32) which is rotatably movable in the first direction (35) relative to the launch unit (3), an actuator (71) for adjusting the angular position of the launch unit (3) in an angular sector of rotational deflection in the first direction (35) relative to the base (1), the machine comprising a system for adjusting the angular sector of deflection, which system selectively makes it possible to reduce the angular sector of deflection to one of a plurality of different predetermined angular sectors comprising at least a first angular sector (61), a second angular sector (62) and a third angular sector (63).

Description

"Adjustable Launchers"

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of sports shooting and more particularly to target launching machines. It finds a particularly advantageous application in the field of clay pigeon shooting and in particular the discipline of the “Olympic pit”.

TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

The “Olympic Trench” is a series shooting discipline. It generally requires fifteen shooting machines called "launchers" divided into five groups of three as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Each launcher is precisely configured to throw a target repeatedly along a very precise trajectory. Mechanisms have been proposed giving launchers manually adjustable orientations. A state-of-the-art machine from the applicant is illustrated in Figure 3. This machine comprises a base 1 which is fixed relative to the ground and which supports the entire machine, including a launching unit 3. The latter is the part of the machine at the level of which at least one target 4 can be projected by means of a throwing arm 32 mobile in rotation about an axis of rotation 33, the target 4 being guided on a surface of a plate launch 31. Generally, the rapid throwing movement of the throwing arm 32 is linked to the release of the energy contained in a tensioned spring during an arming cycle.

In order to reduce the number of machines in this sport, solutions have been proposed such as that of the document LIS2011/186023 A1 which discloses a shooting machine whose launch of a disc can be adjusted according to three parameters via three motorized actuators. In this prior art, it is specified that it is possible to modify the angle of projection the height of projection as well as the lateral position of the machine by translation on a rail. In the context of an Olympic pit event, this technical solution could theoretically have been suitable and thus replace fifteen throwers, nevertheless it has a major drawback in its use because it does not allow a satisfactory speed of execution essential for a rapid sequence of shots and its adaptability to each shot is reduced. Indeed, the time separating two target projections in two different directions must be sufficiently short (for example the machine must be able to travel up to two meters in translation and/or 90° in horizontal rotation between two shots), and moreover , on this type of solution, the increase in speed is necessarily accompanied by a loss of precision concerning the trajectories of the targets. The patent document DE 20 2004 013 738 U1 describes a target launching machine comprising a support for a launching unit mounted mobile in rotation relative to a base by means of an actuator. The angular sector that the support can travel with respect to the base is necessarily limited by the stroke of the actuator.

An object of the present invention is therefore to propose a system making it possible to improve the reactivity and the precision of machines intended for the launching of targets within the framework of an Olympic pit event.

The other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a review of the following description and the accompanying drawings. It is understood that other benefits may be incorporated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To achieve this objective, according to one embodiment, a target projection machine for sports shooting is provided, comprising:

- a base,

- a rotating mobile launch unit in a first direction relative to the base,

- a mobile throwing arm in rotation relative to the throwing unit,

- an actuator allowing adjustment of the angular position of the unit of launch in an angular sector of deflection in rotation in the first direction relative to the base, characterized in that it comprises a system for adjusting the angular sector of deflection making it possible to selectively reduce the angular sector of deflection to one among a plurality different predetermined angular sectors comprising at least a first angular sector, a second angular sector and a third angular sector.

As a result, the adjustment makes it possible to reduce the angular movement and thus the throwing arm only moves a few degrees to reach the desired throwing angle. As a result, the device is more precise and the target is projected according to the planned trajectory. The adjustment system allows at least three distinct configurations for the same machine, which also allows multiple use of a universal launcher and thus a reduction in production costs. Reducing the angular sector to be scanned makes it possible to limit the speed of the actuator and therefore to choose actuators, in particular cylinders, which are more stable in the stationary position even in the event of a power cut; typically, it is the power transmission links which are more irreversible and which thus avoid parasitic movements due to the forces applied by the elements of the machine.

The technical solution thus proposed allows a better reactivity and a better precision of the target launching machines.

According to one aspect, the actuator allowing adjustment of the angular position of the launch unit relative to the base is a jack, advantageously electric, which consequently has a limited stroke of its rod, so that the angular sector of displacement of the launch unit that the actuator can produce in a given position is limited by this stroke and/or a maximum stroke objective that it is desired to assign to the actuator. Thus, in general, the actuator has a predetermined maximum stroke.

In a clever way, it is proposed here to modify the position of the actuator so as to have several angular sectors of movement of the launch unit relative to the base. What is more, in particular in the case of Olympic pit shooting, this makes it possible to have angular sectors that are not complementary on a trigonometric circle, but overlapping, and adapted to the characteristics of this type of shooting practice. Thus, the movement of the actuator is optimized in each of the desired angular sectors, with a reduced cylinder stroke allowing good responsiveness.

Another separable aspect relates to a system comprising three machines, in which the three machines are preconfigured to respectively scan an angular sector of movement among a plurality of different predetermined angular sectors. These machines may be identical except as regards the angular sector of movement in rotation. Each machine can be assigned, without the possibility of sector adjustment, a given angular sector (and different from that of the other machines), but, preferably, these machines are adjustable and are set separately to produce this difference in angular sector.

Another aspect relates to a method for presetting a machine comprising a step of selectively adjusting the angle of movement in the first direction from among the plurality of different angular sectors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge better from the detailed description of an embodiment of the latter which is illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

- Figure 1 shows an example of a launching system for the Olympic pit as found in the prior art comprising five sets of three launchers.

- Figure 2 shows an example of a launch system for the Olympic pit as found in the prior art with a shooter moving on the different firing point locations.

- Figure 3 shows a target launcher from the prior art.

- Figures 4A to 4B show a launcher according to the present invention.

- Figure 5 shows a combination of three launchers according to the present invention.

- Figure 6 represents the angular sectors of movement of the three launchers illustrated in figure 5.

- Figures 7A to 7F represent an adjustment of an anchor point of an actuator in three different positions and according to the invention.

- Figure 8 shows in a view parallel to the ground a diagram in the form of a zone of the angular sectors of movement of a combination of three launchers according to the invention.

- Figure 9A shows, in profile, an embodiment of the launching machine; figure 9B provides a detail, for the inclination of the launching unit relative to the base.

- Figure 10A is similar to the representation of Figure 9A, in a situation of different inclination; Figure 10B is similar to Figure 9B, but in the reclining position as shown in Figure 10A.

- Figure 11 provides in perspective an exemplary embodiment.

The drawings are given by way of examples and do not limit the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate understanding of the invention and are not necessarily scaled to practical applications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before starting a detailed review of embodiments of the invention, optional characteristics are set out below which may possibly be used in combination or alternatively:

According to one example, the adjustment system is configured to modify the position of the actuator.

This allows an advantageous optimization of the orientation of the actuator according to the angular sector of travel selected. Indeed, the actuator is thus ideally positioned to maximize its efficiency.

According to one example, the actuator 71, 72, 73 is an electric cylinder.

According to one example, the adjustment system comprises a plurality of anchoring points where at least one anchoring unit of the actuator 71, 72, 73 is able to cooperate alternately. The anchoring unit is preferably at the one of the ends of the actuator, for example at the distal end of a cylinder rod or at the rear end of a cylinder body.

According to one example, an adjustment system is configured to modify an anchor point of the first actuator 71 on the base 1.

According to one example, an adjustment system is configured to modify an anchor point of the first actuator 71 on the launch unit 3.

Preferably, the adjustment system is configured to modify a distance separating an anchoring unit of the actuator on an anchoring point of the base 1 and an anchoring unit of the actuator on an anchoring point of the support 2. In other words, the distance separating the anchoring of the actuator on the support 2 and the anchoring of the actuator on the base is modified by using different anchoring points, at least on one of the base and stand.

Optionally, an anchoring unit can equip one end of an actuator and another anchoring unit can equip the other end of the actuator. An anchoring unit means any element capable of ensuring a connection between the actuator and a part of the machine among the base and the support. An anchor point means any element capable of cooperating with an anchoring unit to provide the connection. Such a connection may typically be a pivot connection along an axis parallel to that of the rotation provided by the actuator in question.

According to one example, a second actuator 72 allows an additional adjustment of the angular position of the launch unit 3 in an angular sector of movement in rotation along a second direction 36, allowing an inclination of the launch unit 3 with respect to the base 1, the first direction being different from the second direction

According to one example, an energy accumulation spring makes it possible to move the throwing arm 32 and the machine further comprises a system for varying the tension of the spring, the system is configured so as to maintain a constant throwing distance and regardless of the angular position set by the second actuator 72 in a sector of rotation along the second direction 36.

According to one example, the three machines are arranged so that a central machine is centered between two lateral machines and the angular sectors of the lateral machines are symmetrical with respect to a direction of fire 34 of the central machine.

According to one example, the predetermined angular sectors 61, 62, 63 intersect.

According to one example, the step of selective adjustment of the deflection angle is carried out by modifying the position of the first actuator 71.

According to one example, a machine is used comprising an actuator 71, 72, 73 which comprises an anchoring unit capable of cooperating with a fixing element on one of several anchoring points on one of the base 1 and support 2 to allow the selective adjustment step.

It is specified that in the context of the present invention, the term "launcher" is sometimes used instead of "machine" as claimed object, these terms should be considered as equivalent.

In the context of the invention, the positioning precision in the assembly of the various components of the launchers depends on the precision of the shot and thus the play of the mechanisms is likely to cause theoretical lateral disparities in the trajectories of the targets for two identical machines. . For example, we can see a lateral deviation of 25 cm for a shot of 76 m. It is therefore appropriate to accept a target trajectory deviation margin between two machines having the same settings. These deviations will therefore be taken into account when two trajectories are qualified as identical. The allowable fallout uncertainty of the target can also correspond to a 2 m square centered 76 m from the thrower.

In the context of the invention, the term “radial orientation” or “radially” will be understood to refer to the positioning of a mobile element in rotation with respect to an axis.

In the rest of the description, the term “on” does not necessarily mean “directly on”. Thus, when it is indicated that a part or a component A is resting "on" a part or a component B, this does not mean that the parts or components A and B are necessarily in direct contact with the other. These parts or components A and B can either be in direct contact or be supported on one another by the intermediary of one or more other parts. It is the same for other expressions such as for example the expression "A acts on B" which can mean "A acts directly on B" or "A acts on B via one or more other parts ".

In the present patent application, the term mobile corresponds to a rotational movement or to a translational movement or even to a combination of movements, for example the combination of a rotation and a translation.

In the present patent application, when it is indicated that two parts are distinct, it means that these parts are separate. They are :

- positioned at a distance from each other, and/or

- movable relative to each other and/or

- secured to each other by being fixed by added elements, this fixing being removable or not.

A unitary one-piece part cannot therefore be made up of two separate parts.

In the present patent application, the term "united" used to qualify the connection between two parts means that the two parts are linked/fixed with respect to each other, according to all the degrees of freedom, except if is explicitly specified differently. For example, if it is indicated that two parts are integral in translation along an X direction, this means that the parts can be movable relative to each other except along the X direction. In other words, if one moves a part along the X direction, the other part performs the same movement.

In the present patent application, an elastic means can for example be a spring, such as a coil spring, elastic washers such as Belleville washers, an elastomer, a rubber. PRESENTATION OF THE OLYMPIC PIT

As a reminder, and as illustrated in Figure 1, a series of fifteen launchers 91 distributed along a line and advantageously oriented and configured, make it possible to validate the standards required by the regulations of an official "Olympic pit" event. In the general case, the orientation of each of the launchers 91 is configured so as to remain the same throughout an event. Thus, each launcher 91 is able to launch a target 4 according to a pre-established projection, and adjusted so as to repeat the launch as faithfully as possible in order to obtain identical trajectories.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a shooter 81 moves throughout the event between the different firing point locations 8 in order to position himself in front of a combination 9 comprising three launchers 91 which are randomly likely to to eject a projectile in a predefined direction, either to the left, or to the right, or to the center. Thus, the shooter does not know in advance which of the three launchers 91 of the combination 9 will throw a target 4.

RESUME OF THE GENERAL PROBLEM

In order to significantly reduce the logistical costs of an "Olympic pit" event and as specified in the introductory part of the request, solutions have been planned including a single adjustable launcher. Indeed, this makes it possible to avoid the installation of fifteen different launchers. However, it has been observed that a single pitcher cannot, however, suffice to replace all of the fifteen pitchers 91 since he has neither the responsiveness nor the precision required by the regulations for "Olympic pit" events or the consistency of target projection distance (in particular at 76 m for the Olympic pit).

STRUCTURAL DESCRIPTION OF A LAUNCHER

Unless otherwise provided, the machine proposed here can take up one or more aspects of such a launcher. As illustrated in FIG. 3 and according to a precise example of a device taken from the prior art, the launcher 91 comprises a base 1 on which is positioned a launch unit 3 by means of a support 2 movable in rotation with respect to at the base via an axis 20 of support. The launching unit comprises a launching plate 31 as well as a launching arm 32 movable in rotation relative to the launching plate 31 via an axis 33. A target 4 is advantageously positioned on a launching plate 31. The throwing arm 32 by an accelerated movement comes to cooperate by contact with the target 4 in order to project it according to a pre-established trajectory. FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF A LAUNCHER

According to this same example, the accelerated movement of the arm can be triggered via a mechanical actuator. Advantageously, it is an elastic means such as a stretched spring. When, for example, the spring is released, it triggers, by release of mechanical energy, an accelerated movement of the throwing arm 32 and the projection of the target 4 follows.

GENERAL SOLUTION OF THE INVENTION

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, and according to a preferred embodiment, the launcher 91 comprises a base 1 on which is mounted a support 2 supporting a launch unit 3. The launch unit 3 comprises a launch plate 31 surmounted a barrel 37 allowing the targets 4 to be reloaded in an automated and continuous manner. The launch unit 3 is rotatable relative to the support 2 in at least one direction 36 so that the launch plate is oriented in a firing direction 34 here shown schematically in a purely illustrative manner. The support 2 is rotatable relative to the base 1 in a direction 35. The first direction 35 may be vertical in a position of use of the machine in a pit; the second direction 36 may be perpendicular to the first direction 35, it may be a direction of inclination relative to a horizontal plane in a position of use of the machine in a pit.

According to this same embodiment, the support 2 and the launching unit 3 are integral in rotation along the first direction 35 and consequently, the orientation of the launching unit 3 along the first direction 35, is carried out simultaneously with the rotation of the support 2 with respect to the base 1. This rotation takes place in an automated manner and preferably in a semi-automatic manner using a motorized actuator 71. The orientation can be carried out laterally or in height by playing on the rotations according to the directions 35,36. However, a single rotational mobility may suffice.

According to one possibility, the support 2 comprises two parts. One of the parts is in the illustrated case a plate 21 arranged on the base 1 and serving as an interface element with the latter. The base may itself be in the form of a plate, the two plates then being opposite each other, substantially parallel. The second part of the support 2 visible in the figures is an upright 22; the latter extends substantially transversely to the plate 21 so as to provide a vertical extension to the support 2; the upright 22 may itself comprise or consist of a plate; at its end opposite to the plate 21, the upright 22 ensures the assembly of the launching unit, for example by fixing a part 38 of the body of the unit at this level. Preferably, a relative movement is nevertheless authorized between the upright 22 and the launch unit 3, via the second actuator 72, in a second direction 36.

According to a non-limiting possibility, the support 2 thus formed also allows adjustment of the inclination of the launch unit 3 relative to the base 1. Thus, as can be seen for example in FIG. 4A and in FIG. 4B, an axis of inclination 23 is present between the two parts of the support 2, so as to allow relative movement of these two parts along a pivot connection. The plate 21 and the upright 22 have a capacity for relative movement in rotation so as to adjust the inclination of the upright 22. Preferably, this adjustment is used to adjust the launch attitude of the targets, in particular to adapt to the terrain. on which the machine is positioned.

Preferably, once the inclination adjustment has been made, the upright 22 is maintained in its inclined position for the firing phases. Thus, in this option, the inclination is not intended to be modified dynamically during shooting practice. As shown in Figures 7A to 7F, the adjustment can be produced by means of a tilt axis 100 also visible with reference to Figures 10A to 11. The axis 100 is here a threaded rod element whose part output is adjustable relative to a body; it is understood that the rotation of the body relative to the rod makes it possible to modify the length of the axis 100.

A first end 101 of the axis 100 is mounted on the plate 21, in an articulated manner, for example by a ball joint or one or more pivots of different axis. The same applies to the second end 102 this time mounted on the upright 22, for example at the level of a branch transverse to a vertical extension portion of the upright 22.

Preferably, the amplitude of adjustment in inclination is limited by means of an inclination limiter 24 which may comprise a lug secured to one of the plate 21 and the upright 22 moving in an oblong hole of a part integral with the other among the plate 21 and the upright 22. The length of the oblong hole determines the adjustable inclination amplitude, and this for example within an interval limited to 10°.

Thanks to this tilt arrangement, it is possible to modify the attitude of the machine along this additional axis 23. The latter is preferably perpendicular to the direction 35. Furthermore, it is advantageously parallel to the surface of the plate 21. Also preferably, the axis 23 is perpendicular to the second direction 36. FIGS. 9A to 10B show two examples of inclination. We can also consider a target projection power adjustment

4.

By motorized actuator 71, 72, 73, we mean any type of powered element whose purpose is to produce a mechanical movement by energy transformation. This may, for example, be a hydraulic or electrical supply. The term "motorized" means a non-manual drive. An actuator may comprise a rod or arm movable in translation on command. It can be the rod of a cylinder, or a rod of a crank rod system whose rotation is provided by the output shaft of an engine.

According to this example, the launcher 91 is advantageously adjustable according to two or even three parameters and these adjustments are carried out automatically. This allows the same launcher 91 to randomly project targets 4 according to a multitude of different programmed trajectories. These adjustments can then be made in real time during the "Olympic pit" event so that they allow an optimized configuration of the launchers.

Thus, according to this example, the invention proposes an alternative technical solution to those of the prior art from a single group of three optimized launchers 91. Advantageously, this technical solution requires only one firing point 9 since after each target projection 4, the trajectories of the three launchers 91 are preferentially modified automatically, for example in less than eight seconds. The shooter 81 no longer needs to move, the combination 9 of three throwers 91 is capable of reproducing, in a cyclic manner, the fifteen variants of trajectory in accordance with the requirements of the regulations for “Olympic pit” events.

According to one embodiment, the base 1 comprises a flat surface parallel to the ground and the main direction 35 can be modeled by an axis perpendicular to the ground. Advantageously, the height of the machine is vertical when a launcher 91 is positioned for an Olympic pit event.

ACTUATORS

In order to allow at least partial automation of the adjustments of the trajectory of a target 4, the rotation of the launching unit 3 according to the first direction 35 using a first actuator 71, allows an automated lateral adjustment of the launcher 91. According to an example complementary to the preferred embodiment and as illustrated in FIG. 4B, the launch unit 3 is mobile in order to allow adjustment of the inclination of the launch plate 31 and consequently of the angle d ejection of the targets 4. This adjustment being carried out using a second actuator 72. Finally according to a example also compatible with the preferred embodiment, the launcher 91 comprises a third actuator 73 allowing adjustment of the projection power of the target 4.

ACTUATOR ANCHORING

According to the preferred mode of the invention, the first actuator 71 allows adjustment of the orientation of the base in the direction 35 and therefore the first actuator 71 radially orients the launch unit 3.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 and in order to allow better responsiveness and better precision of the launcher 91, the lateral adjustment of each launcher 91 is deliberately reduced and limited between two lateral terminals 610 and thereby defines a first angular sector of travel. In the case of the Olympic pit, advantageously, the three machines are able to shoot in a throwing direction in line with the machine, without angle, in front of the shooter; indeed, it is advantageous for the angular sectors of each of the three machines to partially overlap. The preferred embodiment, particularly adapted to the Olympic pit and illustrated, implements three machines, but the invention does not exclude more than three machines, in a context of different types of shots in particular.

Thus the launcher 91 is configured according to an angular sector of movement 61, 62, 63 from among a plurality of different predetermined angular sectors comprising at least a first angular sector 61, a second angular sector 62 and a third angular sector 63.

Preferably, each launcher 91 is predefined according to a different angular sector. The angular sector will preferably be less than or equal to 60° and preferably less than or equal to 30°. According to an example and as illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, in a combination 9, the three launchers 91 are aligned, preferably along a line perpendicular to a mediator passing through the firing station and the machine located in the center, the back of the launcher from the center is oriented so as to face the shooter 81 so that its median direction of fire 34 is aligned with the position of the shooter 81 and its angular sector of movement 62 is equal to 20° in total advantageously distributed by two angular sectors of 10° symmetrical with respect to the firing direction 34. Preferably, the other two launchers 91 are equally distributed so that their angular sector is arranged symmetrically with respect to the direction of throwing at the right of the machine, without angle, in front of the shooter, at the level of a straight line at the level of the median direction of projection of the central launcher 91 and possibly their angular sectors extend over 30° or 60°. Advantageously, the machine located to the right of the central machine has a angular sector of movement at least mainly, or even completely, directed towards the left, unlike the machine on the left.

According to one example, the actuator 71, 72, 73 comprises at least one anchoring unit, preferably located on at least one end. The anchoring unit is advantageously pivotable with respect to the actuator 71, 72, 73, for example thanks to a system of simple bearings. The anchoring unit is formally configured so as to be able to cooperate with fixing elements on at least one anchoring point, preferably on three different anchoring points. The anchoring unit comprises a residual mobility in order to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the actuator 71, 72, 73. The anchoring unit can comprise for example a hook, an opening, a fastening system.

According to an example not illustrated, the system for adjusting the angular sector of travel comprises a path in an oblong hole able to cooperate with a fixing system, which can be for example a bolting element such as a screw and/or a nut. Advantageously, the path takes a curved trajectory. Preferably, on an anchor point, the actuator 71, 72, 73 can be dismantled by loosening from a first anchor point then reassembled and held in position in a second anchor point by tightening, preferably by screwing.

According to one example, the anchoring unit comprises an opening, a hook or a ball, capable of cooperating with reception elements positioned at the anchoring points. The reception elements preferably being rods, hooks, or any other mechanical element facilitating the placing and maintaining in position of an actuator 71, 72, 73.

According to one embodiment, the first actuator 71 is an electric jack. Advantageously it comprises two anchoring units, one of which is integral with the support 2 and the other is located in contact with the base 1. The anchoring unit located in contact with the base 1 is preferably removable since it sits on one of three anchor points.

According to one example, the base 1 is a plate, preferably metallic, which comprises a rounded protrusion at the anchor points and each anchor point defines a different angular sector of movement.

COMBINATIONS

As illustrated in FIG. 5 and according to a preferred mode of the invention, a combination 9 comprises three launchers 91 arranged within the same shelter 92 or pit.

SHOOTING ANGLES According to one embodiment and as illustrated in Figure 6, the three launchers 91 are configured so as to be able to be oriented according to an angular sector of travel 61, 62, 63 comprising a direction of fire 34 which can sweep a different angular sector for each of the three machines.

ANCHOR POINTS

According to one embodiment, each launcher has at least one angular sector of travel 61, 62, 63 predefined upstream of an “Olympic pit” event. These angular sectors are preferably adjusted manually. Preferably, the actuator 71, 72, 73 is advantageously secured to two elements of the launcher 91 by two anchor points. For a given actuator, it is advantageously the distance between the two anchors which is modified by motor to vary the firing angle (or the firing power). But to modify the angular sector of this motorized deflection, the position of at least one of the anchorages is adjusted, preferably manually. Thus, the launcher 91 is advantageously configured so that the at least one anchoring point of the actuator 71, 72, 73 can be easily dismantled from a first location then reassembled on a second location provided for this purpose. Thus the at least one anchor point of the actuator 71, 72, 73 may vary, and thereby allow optimization of the positioning of the actuator relative to the desired firing direction sector 34.

According to one embodiment, the dismantling of the actuator at at least one anchor point is carried out using a mechanical fastening element which can be, for example, parts of bolts, such as for example a screw/nut system. .

According to one embodiment, an adjustment clearance is provided at at least one anchoring point of the actuator 71, 72, 73 in order to facilitate its fixing on the base 1 or on the support 2. This may be example of an oblong adjustment hole.

According to a preferred embodiment, a combination 9 comprises three launchers 91 which differ only in the anchorage point of an actuator 7, preferably this will be the first actuator 71.

In one example, all 91 launchers are identical in that they have exactly the same components.

EXAMPLE ACCORDING TO A PARTICULAR EMBODIMENT

In FIGS. 7A to 7F are illustrated an example according to a particular embodiment in which an actuator 71, 72, 73 is advantageously positioned in order to vary a direction of fire 34 in an angular sector of movement 6 preset. Indeed, the modification of the positioning of the actuator preferentially makes functional another angular sector of direction of fire 34. In each of the three configurations given for the angular sectors, the direction of fire 34 is included in the angular sector of travel 61, 62, 63 which is regulated.

According to this last example, the first actuator 71 is advantageously secured to the launcher 91 at two anchor points. A first anchor point is located on the support 2. A second anchor point is located on the base 1. According to a preferred embodiment, at this second anchor point, the first actuator 71 is configured so as to be dismantled, then reassembled on at least one additional anchor point, preferably two additional anchor points, located on the basel. According to one possibility, it is one end of the rod of an actuator jack 71 which is connected to an anchoring point of the support and one end of the body of the actuator jack 71 which is connected to a point base anchor.

Preferably, the possible anchor points of the base are differently spaced from the anchor point of the support so that, in each of the situations represented in FIGS. 7A/7B, 7C/7D, 7E/7F, the length of the actuator between the two anchor points is different. In the case of a cylinder, this corresponds to a different cylinder rod extension length in the three situations. In other words, the formation of each angular sector is carried out by modifying the sector of travel in translation of the actuator, and for example of the rod of a cylinder. The angular sectors can overlap, so that the sectors of travel in translation of the actuator can also overlap but they are different.

Thus, the machine of FIGS. 7A and 7B preferably corresponds to the machine on the right of FIG. 6. Overall, the cylinder rod is more retracted there than in the two other positions, of FIGS. 7C/7D and 7E/7F. Thus, in FIG. 7A, a firing direction 34 is located in the sector 63. As the rod is more retracted, its movement at the outlet is greater, which allows actuation of the support 2 mainly in a counterclockwise direction. This is what makes it possible to reach the position represented in FIG. 7B which here corresponds for example to a terminal of the angular sector 63.

The machine of Figures 7C and 7D preferably corresponds to the machine in the middle of Figure 6. The distance separating the two anchors is less important than in the previous case and this position is advantageously configured so that the rod can move in translation according to strokes of equivalent length on entry or exit around the position represented, which may correspond to a neutral position. The two extreme positions of the cylinder rod correspond respectively to the illustrations of FIGS. 7C and 7D to modify the direction of fire 34 in sector 62 accordingly. Finally, FIGS. 7E and 7F preferably correspond to the machine on the left in FIG. 6. This time, the distance between the anchors is maximum, so that the actuator 71 is the most extended in this position. In the case of a jack, it is in this situation that the rod is extended the most, for a throw to the right of the pit. On the other hand, the length of re-entrant stroke of the rod of the cylinder is greater there, which allows greater travel in a trigonometric direction. Thus, a displacement of 30° can be effected in the sector 61 by a reentrant movement of the cylinder rod from the firing direction 34 of FIG. 7E to that of FIG. 7F.

As a result of the previous explanations, one aspect of embodiments of the machine makes it possible to modify the length of the outgoing rod in a situation for a shot at the right of the pit by modifying at least one of the anchorings of the jack. Thanks to this modification, it is possible to modify the stroke of the actuator in the direction of rod extension and the stroke of the actuator in the direction of retraction of the rod. It is thus possible to make the actuator 71 of one of the machines work so that the angular sector covered is mainly induced by an outgoing translation of the rod. In addition, the actuator 71 of another machine can be made to work so that the angular sector covered is mainly induced by a reentrant translation of the rod. Moreover, the actuator 71 of another machine, preferably the central machine, can be made to work, so that the angular sector covered is distributed identically between the outgoing stroke and the retracting stroke of the cylinder rod.

The explanations given above are applicable mutatis mutandis to a deflection of moving parts in translation other than the rod of a cylinder, for example an arm of a crank rod system.

VARIANTS AND OTHER EMBODIMENTS (ANCHORING BASE ON ROTATING CARRIAGE, BASE ON TRANSLATION CARRIAGE.)

According to a particular embodiment, the base is removable and the actuator 71, 72, 73 may not be removable. Preferably, the base is mounted on a mobile carriage in rotation and whose rotation can be blocked according to three predefined anchoring points.

According to another embodiment, the base 1 is mounted on a movable carriage in translation.

ELECTRIC JACK

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the actuators 71, 72, 73 is an electric jack. Preferably, they may be 12V electric jacks associated with sensors dedicated to the positioning of the jacks which may be of the potentiometer, optical or Hall effect type. According to an example, the number of pulses per mm of stroke is 12599 and the permitted load is 6000 N. In each angular sector 61, 62,63, the stroke of the actuator may be low, for example less than 5 cm.

ANGULAR SECTORS OF DEBATEMENT

As illustrated in FIG. 8 and according to one embodiment of the invention, the combination 9 comprising three launchers 91 is configured so as to be able to project targets 4 according to three different angular sectors of movement, a first angular sector 61, a second angular sector 62 and a third angular sector 63. The limitation of the rotational movements of the launchers in different angular sectors of movement makes it possible to limit the stroke of the actuators in a corresponding manner, this stroke being, for each angular sector, a predetermined maximum path between two extreme positions of the actuator rod; the extreme position is not necessarily an end of travel, and can also be desired limits for the movement of the rod.

SECOND ADJUSTMENT DIRECTION

According to a particular embodiment in which a first adjustment is configured to allow disassembly of a first actuator 71 from a first location then reassembly of the first actuator 71 in a second location, the invention provides that at least a second adjustment equivalent can be performed on at least a second actuator 72. Possibly the launcher 91 is configured so as to allow a third equivalent adjustment of an at least third actuator 73. In the illustrated embodiments, the second actuator 72 has an end linked to the launch unit, for example by a pivot link. The other end is linked to the support 2, also for example by pivot. As can be seen in FIG. 4A or again in FIG. 11, this end is attached to the support in an anchoring zone 721. Preferably, the anchoring zone 721 is located on the upright 22 of the support 2. A potential interest is to raise the location of the second actuator 72 relative to the base 20, for example to have a raised configuration of the second actuator 72 relative to the actuator 71. Moreover, this arrangement makes the actuator 72 insensitive to modifications tilt around the axis 23, the actuator 72 being in this case, integral with the part which tilts. The different movements are therefore better decoupled.

POWER ADJUSTMENT

According to a particular embodiment, the launcher 91 comprises a system for varying the launch tension operating thanks to an elastic element and preferably a spring, typically a spring put under tension during an arming phase. Actuator 73 preferably includes an anchor connected to a end of the spring so that the tension of the armed spring can be adjusted according to the position of this anchor.

The system is advantageously configured to keep a projection distance constant despite the modification of at least one angular position per actuator 7.

According to one embodiment, the origin of movement of the actuators 71, 72, 73 or the load of the spring(s) can be moved electronically within a calculation unit in order to compensate for the variations in trajectory due to altitude, winds or other meteorological parameters.

According to one embodiment, a sequencer controls the combination 9 comprising the three launchers 91. Preferably, it integrates the data relating to all the trajectories and manages, for example, the evolution of the combinations during the firing session for one or more shooters 81. The sequencer may include a processor and an instruction storage memory for executing actuator commands.

In the context of training and according to a particular embodiment, the sequencer also offers the possibility of selecting specific trajectories, of repeating them, and of modifying their difficulty by decreasing or increasing the speed of projection of the targets 4, or by creating your own shooting sequence.

According to one example, the sequencer also determines which launcher 91 must be requested for the upcoming shot.

According to one embodiment, the invention comprises an interface between the shooter and the sequencer. Preferably, it is a radio control comprising a transmitter and a receiver, the transmitter can be for example a "lavalier microphone" in order to allow a departure of the target under voice command.

According to one embodiment, the invention provides a hybrid solution in which an "Olympic pit" with three launchers 91, preferably arranged within a shelter 92.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments previously described and extends to all embodiments in accordance with its spirit. NUMERICAL REFERENCES ison ent ment nt n ion of unit body angular age angular ur angular r ur eur eur ity ity

Claims

1. Target throwing machine (4) for sports shooting, comprising:

- a base (1),

- a launch unit (3) rotatable in a first direction (35) relative to the base,

- a throwing arm (32) rotatable relative to the throwing unit (3),

- an actuator (71) allowing adjustment of the angular position of the launch unit (3) in an angular sector of movement in rotation along the first direction (35) relative to the base (1), characterized in that it comprises a system for adjusting the angular sector of movement which selectively makes it possible to reduce the angular sector of movement to one of a plurality of different predetermined angular sectors comprising at least a first angular sector (61), a second angular sector (62) and a third angular sector (63), the first angular sector (61), the second angular sector (62) and the third angular sector (63) overlapping and each being less than or equal to 60°, and in that the actuator (71) is an electric cylinder.

2. Machine according to the preceding claim wherein the adjustment system is configured to modify the position of the actuator (71).

3. Machine according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a support (2) positioned intermediately between the base (1) and the launching unit (3), the support (2) being rotatable relative to the base (1) and the launch unit (3) being positioned on the support (2), the support (2) comprising a plate (21) disposed on the base (1) and a post (22) mounted on the plate (21), the machine comprising a second actuator (72) allowing additional adjustment of the angular position of the launching unit (3) in an angular sector of deflection in rotation along a second direction (36), allowing an inclination of the launch unit (3) with respect to the base (1), the first direction being different from the second direction, one end of the second actuator (72) being mounted on the upright (22).

4. Machine according to the preceding claim, wherein the upright (22) is adjustable in inclination about an axis of inclination (23) relative to the plate Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the adjustment system comprises a plurality of anchoring points on which at least one anchoring unit of the actuator (71) is capable of cooperating alternately. Machine according to the preceding claim, in which the adjustment system is configured to modify an anchoring point of the actuator (71) on the base (1). Machine according to any one of the two preceding claims, in which the adjustment system is configured to modify an anchoring point of the actuator (71) on the launching unit (3). Machine according to any one of the three preceding claims, in which the adjustment system is configured to modify a distance separating an anchoring unit of the actuator on an anchoring point of the base (1) and a unit of anchoring of the actuator on an anchoring point of the support (2). Machine according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the throwing unit (3) comprises an energy storage spring in order to move the throwing arm (32) and the machine further comprises a system for varying the spring tension. Machine according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 3, in which the variation system is configured in such a way as to maintain a constant projection distance and this regardless of the angular position set by the second actuator (72) in a sector of rotation along the second direction (36). A system comprising three machines according to any preceding claim, wherein the three machines are preconfigured to respectively scan a different angular sector of travel among the plurality of different predetermined angular sectors (61, 62, 63). System according to the preceding claim, in which the three machines are arranged so that a central machine is centered between two lateral machines and the angular sectors of the lateral machines are symmetrical with respect to a direction of fire (34) of the machine central. A system according to any one of the two preceding claims, in which the predetermined angular sectors (61, 62, 63) intersect. Method for presetting a machine according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, comprising a step of selectively adjusting the angle of movement in the first direction (35) from among the plurality of different angular sectors. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the step of selective adjustment of the angle of movement is carried out by modifying the position of the actuator (71). Method according to any one of the two preceding claims, in which a machine is used comprising an actuator (71) which comprises an anchoring unit capable of cooperating with a fixing element on an anchoring point among several anchoring points on one of the base (1) and the support (2) to allow the step of selective adjustment.